I bought a spare tyre dated before 2000. Should I use it?

Can I use a space saver tyre that was made before the year 2000? I have just purchased one from eBay that has a DOT code of H292. Research shows this is made before 2000 so with guidance that says tyres over 6 years old should not be used, I'm thinking of returning it. Your comments will be appreciated. Many thanks.

Asked on 26 October 2020 by John Moran

Answered by Georgia Petrie

There's currently no UK law regarding tyre age, although there is a consultation currently ongoing in regards to banning tyres older than 10 years old on HGV, buses etc. Tyres are considered to be fit for retail up to 5 years from the date of production. When in use, it's recommended that tyres are replaced when they reach 7 - 10 years old, (6 years in the case of caravans or trailers). Tyres degrade with age even if they aren't used very often. I'd strongly advise against using it.

Tags: wheels and tyres

Similar questions

Is one missing wheel nut now an MoT fail?

Is one missing wheel nut now an MoT fail? On a similar subject, can you still have an MoT a month before and still use the car even if it fails (unless it's considered unroadworthy) or has that changed...

Why does one of my new tyres have red and yellow stripes around it?

I recently had four new Goodyear all-season tyres fitted and one has red and yellow stripes round the tyre but the others are not marked. Should I be concerned?

Should I return my tyre pressures to normal as soon as I have finished transporting heavy loads?

When I have finished using my Ford Kuga for transporting heavy loads - with a trailer - does it matter if I continue to use the car for a day/week or two for local suburban driving before deflating the...